German Firm Luphonic Revolutionizes Vinyl Turntables with Innovative Design

The world of vinyl enthusiasts is set for a transformative experience with the introduction of the H2 turntable by German manufacturer Luphonic. This innovative product addresses a common frustration among vinyl collectors: the cumbersome process of changing playback speeds. With the H2, users can seamlessly switch between 33 RPM and 45 RPM records, enhancing the listening experience without the usual interruptions.

Simplifying User Interaction

The design revolves around a small, coin-sized puck that redefines how users interact with turntables. When placed on a designated illuminated spot with the black side facing up, the turntable plays at 33 RPM. Flipping the puck to the white side automatically changes the speed to 45 RPM. Moving the puck off the marker halts the turntable. The current speed is displayed in bright red LED digits on the turntable’s sleek white Corian chassis, eliminating the need for buttons or complex menus.

Thomas Luh, founder of Luphonic, established the company in early 2020, shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic. He aimed to create products that combined aesthetic appeal with technical functionality. The H2’s distinctive H-shaped chassis minimizes interference between the platter bearing and tonearm, while the elegant design serves both visual and acoustic purposes.

Engineering Excellence

The H2’s construction emphasizes high-quality materials and advanced engineering techniques. It features a three-layer sandwich design that incorporates solid surface materials, such as Corian, separated by vibration-damping cellular rubber. This structure ensures low resonance and an appealing finish, achieved through seven grinding and polishing passes.

Unlike traditional turntables, which often suffer from mechanical vibrations, the H2’s motor isolation strategy places the AC motor on a lower layer while the arm and cartridge are fixed to the top layer. This separation effectively prevents motor vibrations from reaching the stylus, resulting in a cleaner audio output.

The puck system not only enhances user experience but also addresses long-standing issues in turntable design. By eliminating the need for mechanical switches, wear on components is reduced and users receive instant feedback via the LED display. This contactless operation also safeguards the turntable against unintentional damage from curious users.

The microprocessor-controlled motor provides precise control, with each unit calibrated individually before delivery to ensure optimal performance. The low-vibration motor produces smooth operation and accurate speeds, making it a standout option for serious audiophiles.

Tailored for Audiophiles

The H2 is paired with a specially designed K2 tonearm, manufactured in-house at Luphonic’s facility. This tonearm features a carbon fiber tube selected for its acoustic properties rather than just its weight. The headshell is crafted from sintered polyamide filled with tiny glass spheres, which contributes to rigidity while minimizing unwanted vibrations.

At a price of £3,950 (approximately $4,995 USD), the H2 positions itself as an accessible option for dedicated vinyl enthusiasts seeking high-quality engineering without venturing into five-figure price ranges. The turntable excels in typical listening environments, effectively resisting external vibrations that can disrupt sound quality.

While the H2 ships without a cartridge, it includes premium cables that reflect Luphonic’s commitment to optimizing the entire audio system. In the UK, distributor Auden supplies the turntable with an Audiomica Henat 1-meter cable valued at over £700, reinforcing the brand’s focus on high-quality signal transmission.

Future Prospects

The H2 turntable exemplifies a harmonious blend of advanced engineering and user-friendly design. By prioritizing simplicity, Luphonic challenges the notion that high-quality audio must be complex. This innovative approach may inspire other manufacturers to rethink their designs, potentially leading to a shift in how analog music systems are perceived.

For audiophiles seeking a more enjoyable and less technical listening experience, the H2 presents a compelling option. With its intuitive operation and exceptional performance, Luphonic has set a new standard in the vinyl market, inviting curiosity about the future of turntable design.